2081728

1861-S US $ 20 Liberty Double Eagle Gold Coin #2081728

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
1861-S US $ 20 Liberty Double Eagle Gold Coin #2081728
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Anthony C. Paquet, assistant engraver at the Mint, produced a new reverse die, with tall letters, intended for use in making business strike double eagles. On January 5, 1861, at the Philadelphia Mint it was decided that the use of this style would be discontinued for the rim was too narrow. Coinage ceased with the Paquet die, and use of the old-style dies with Longacre?s lettering was resumed.

Instructions to discontinue the use of the Paquet dies and to revert to the old style were sent to San Francisco by telegraph to St. Joseph (the western terminus of the telegraph line), and from there by overland express. Charles H. Hempstead, superintendent, replied to the instructions on February 9, 1861 (excerpt):

"I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 5th, ?overland,? which however did not come to hand until the 2nd [of February]. I was, therefore, unable to prevent the striking and issuing of a large number of double eagles, coined with the new dies. The amount issued was $385,000."

Thus, 19,250 1861-S Paquet Reverse double eagles were struck, apparently without any difficulty regarding the narrow rim. Rather than melt the remaining pieces on hand, as no problem was perceived with them, they were released as called for by depositors.
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#: GC_1861_S</td>
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<tr><td>Condition:Fine</td></tr>
<tr><td>Year:1861</td></tr>
<tr><td>Country:USA</td></tr>





<tr><td>Title:1861-S US $ 20 Liberty Double Eagle Gold Coin</td></tr>

<tr><td>Materials:Gold</td></tr>
<tr><td>Type:Gold Coin</td></tr>
<tr><td>Location:ST. LOUIS, MO</td></tr>
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